Commission Payments to Unregistered Persons

Quick Answer

A member firm generally may not pay transaction-related compensation to a person who is not registered as a broker-dealer, when the payment and the recipient's related activities would require broker-dealer registration. The test looks at what the person actually does, not just at the compensation label.

This topic asks whether an unregistered recipient's compensation and related activities require broker-dealer registration.


Does the Payment Require the Recipient to Be Registered?

  • The prohibition applies when the payment and the recipient's related activities require broker-dealer registration.

Exam Tip: Gotchas

  • Unregistered status alone is not the complete test. Ask whether the compensation and the recipient's related activities require registration.

What Should You Check on Exam Day?

  • Identify the payment, recipient, and activities tied to compensation.